I have never recorded in a pro studio. From the very beginning I have had a “home” studio. Yep, been DIY since 1974. This Realistic unit recorded onto 8-track cartridges, on only L and R channels. And what you recorded couldn’t be bounced or mixed down, and no overdubs; so recording was capturing a live performance. I learned a lot!
For a long time I felt shamed for not affording a “real” studio; and people will surely share their opinion with you on that. But you know what? I have truly enjoyed my journey, now 48 years long. I like that I had an interest in and pursued recording at home. Yeah, I’ve spent lots of money and had lots of different gear; probably could have gone into a pro studio at least twice. But, again, I like the way it’s happened for me.